In Session: Claptone

The idea of hiding one’s identity to draw focus on the music is nothing new. From Daft Punk to Burial, numerous DJs and producers have attempted to create a career in which their true identity remains separated from their stage name. Amongst these names, none have gone to such extreme measures to protect to their identity as the house music mysterioso known as Claptone. Donning a long, pointed venetian gold mask, white gloves and a black top hat, the elusive DJ and producer has grabbed the attention of the global house music scene with his top-notch performance methods and his theatrical aura.

Mixmag’s first interaction with Claptone in 2015 involved a studio invitation written on a paper scroll that started with the words “dear mortal”, a blindfolded journey down a labyrinth of hallways and a candlelit meeting in a basement which revealed that the artist's pursuit of anonymity is as serious as much as it a game. Since then, Claptone has gone on to play hundreds of shows around the globe to share his hedonistic and shiny style of house music with eager onlookers from all walks of life. Because of his busy tour schedule and the steps he takes to eschew curious fans, many a music sleuth have raised the question... “is Claptone multiple people?”

Getting his start in 2013 with the release of his big single ‘Dear Life’, Claptone’s uplifting and vocal heavy sound has racked up millions of plays on Youtube and Spotify and he continues to wow obsessive audiences with the warm and euphoric groove of his productions. The simpering characteristic of the artist’s musical stylings may be in stark contrast to his inscrutable guise, but the vibe which ripples throughout his performances - on top of his pleasant manner when interacting with us personally - shows that this artist has found a happy medium between dark aesthetics and inspiriting sounds.

Just in time for Spring, Claptone has brought us a swanky one-hour mix for Mixmag’s ongoing In Session series. Filled with puffed-up basslines and committed percussion, this fastening mix has every intention of leading you to the dancefloor in a brain-twisting manner which will no doubt leave a gold plated grin on your face.

Check out the mix below.

Cameron is Mixmag's US Digital Staff Writer. Follow him on Twitter here